ComScore

The 6 Best Coats for Shorties

Calling all ladies 5-foot-3 and under

The pros of being petite are many. For starters, you can pretty much wear any heel height and never have to worry about being taller than your gentleman friend. The cons, however, include the difficulty of finding clothing that doesn’t drag on the floor but actually fits your arms. The most challenging is outerwear. Here are six flattering coats tailored to fit our fellow shorties.

The 8 Chicest Coat Trends of 2016


belted list
Nordstrom

A Belted Duster

Rule number one: A belt is your best friend. Cinching in the waist—particularly with a thicker coat or jacket—does wonders for a smaller frame.

Get the look: Lauren Ralph Lauren ($241)

A Sleek Cocoon Shape

That’s not to say you can’t pull off less-fitted styles. Just make sure the fabric isn’t too bulky and the details are minimal (so maybe pass on the sequins or loud patterns for this shape).

Get the look: J.Crew ($350)

aline list
Zara

A Subtle A-line

Petite ladies are already familiar with the flattering powers of an A-line skirt or dress. The same goes for coats. A slight swing shape gives the illusion of length, while a touch of embellishment on top draws the eyes upward.

Get the look: Zara ($229)

A Cropped Trench

Shrunken and belted is a foolproof combo for shorties with sophisticated style.

Get the look: Banana Republic ($228)

A Cropped Fur

A bit of faux fur offers warmth and is a much chicer option than, say, a dowdy puffer coat for a night out on the town. Just keep yours on the fitted side to avoid looking like Big Bird.

Get the look: ASOS ($76)

slim puffer list
Club Monaco

A Slim Puffer

But if you do get a down coat (they’re a necessity in some regions), opt for something that’s slim-cut and hits above the knee so you don’t venture into marshmallow territory.

Get the look: Club Monaco ($650)



susan waits

Lousy baker, stellar shopping buddy

You can find Susan either blissfully buried in a pile of clothes or on a plane between L.A. and NYC.